NI PXI-5411 High-Speed Arbitrary Waveform Generator

The NI PXI-5411 is a high-speed arbitrary waveform generator module for PXI systems that delivers precise custom signal creation across demanding test and measurement applications. Operating at 12-bit resolution with a 40 MHz maximum update rate, this module generates arbitrary waveforms, standard functions (sine, square, triangle, ramp), and complex signal sequences. Output ranges from ±5 V into 50 Ω loads or ±10 V into high-impedance loads, with a 32-bit DDS accumulator enabling fine frequency control. The device stores up to 2,000,000 16-bit samples in arbitrary waveform mode, supporting continuous, stepped, single, and burst operational modes.

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: 12 bits
• Maximum Update Rate: 40 MHz
• DDS Accumulator: 32 bits
• Arbitrary Waveform Memory: 2,000,000 16-bit samples
• Output Voltage (50 Ω load): ±5 V
• Output Voltage (high-impedance load): ±10 V
• Power Supply: 5 V @ 3.5 A maximum; 12 V @ 125 mA
• Operating Temperature Range: 0 °C to 50 °C

– Key Features

• User-defined arbitrary waveform generation with 16-bit sample storage
• Multiple trigger sources: internal generation, external digital I/O, RTSI lines, and TTL PXI trigger bus
• Four operational modes: continuous, stepped, single, and burst
• Six connectors: two BNC, three SMB, and one 50-pin digital interface
• NI-FGEN instrument driver with VirtualBench soft front panel for intuitive configuration
• Waveform data import/export compatible with standard spreadsheet and document formats

– Typical Applications

• Automated test systems requiring custom signal generation
• Sensor stimulus and signal conditioning
• RF and analog circuit validation
• Arbitrary waveform playback in laboratory and production environments

– Compatibility & Integration

The PXI-5411 integrates directly into National Instruments PXI chassis and is controlled via the NI-FGEN driver, enabling rapid development in LabVIEW, C, Python, and other supported environments. VirtualBench provides standalone operation with built-in reporting, timestamping, and measurement logging capabilities.